A large winter storm, with heavy snow and strong winds, affected southeast Minnesota from December 8 through December 9. As the storm system approached, it strengthened and produced strong northwest winds that gusted to 45 mph at times, leading to significant drifting and blowing snow. Visibilities were reduced to near zero in many locations, especially in open country, where blizzard conditions prevailed. Snow drifts of 4 to 6 feet were common by the morning of December 9, with numerous roads nearly impassable. Snow plows had difficulty keeping roads open, especially in rural areas. Highest snowfall totals were between 12 and 17 inches. Specific reports from weather observers included 16.5 inches at Rushford (Fillmore County), 16.3 inches at both Dakota and Minnesota City (Winona County) and 14.0 inches near Caledonia (Houston County).